After the visit Japan A few times I realized I was used to what was once strange. I’m talking about toilet songs, shoesless, identifying variations of tofu, and more. To help you plan your first trip to Japan, I compiled a list of everything I knew before I visited Japan. We promise to help you make your trip smoother!
Things you need to know before visiting Japan
In many cases, wearing shoes is aggressive
Leave your shoes on when you enter someone’s house is such a big deal in Japan. It can even be considered a sign of disrespect. This also applies to wearing Tatami Mat’s Ryokans shoes. Plus, you’re often expected to take your shoes off at restaurants. After removing the shoes, you will be given a joint slipper to wear. If slippers are not provided, socks are OK to wear. But be careful as the floors are often very slippery!
Metro is not 24 hours
Even in Tokyo, many subways are not operating 24 hours a day. Check your schedule in advance or prepare to take a taxi late in the evening. The last thing you want to do is to get stuck without a plan to go home!
Rail paths are essential
If you are planning on traveling a lot of Japan and want to save both money and time, railway spraying is totally worth it. I would recommend you buy an unlimited pass that allows you to travel on both Shinkansen (bullet train) and JR Line (regional train). Pass prices are based on periods, 3 days, 7 days, 14 days, etc.
Always carry cash
In Japan, there are still many places that accept cash only. To avoid a crazy dash to ATMs, always bring in a small amount of cash for those small purchases, and if you’re buying a larger one, check if you can use your card first.
Tips are not a common practice
Unlike in the US, tipping is not a common practice in Japan and is not expected. However, it is recommended that you buy a small gift for those who are above (i.e. tour guides) for you.
Many Japanese people cannot speak English outside of cities.
Most people you meet in Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto speak English enough to enjoy conversations, but many locals in the countryside do not speak English. The best way to prepare yourself is to remember some keywords politely. Hand gestures are very helpful! Bowing your head is a sign of respect when you meet someone or appreciate their service.
What is the story behind the surgical mask?
Contrary to common belief, Japanese people who wear surgical masks don’t protect themselves from illness, but in reality they protect their surroundings (friends, family, and colleagues) from their own flu, or more generally from hay fever.
Ryokans is a must
Ryokans originated from the Edo period in the early 17th century and is not the typical lifestyle for most Japanese people today, but it is a great cultural experience of at least 1-2 nights. These Japanese inns are places where you can sleep on a tartami mat, enjoy local cuisine with a typical Japanese set breakfast, and perhaps enjoy a public bathhouse. Ryokans’ hospitality is unparalleled and I couldn’t recommend this experience more! Here are some I really enjoyed: